Common Causes of Herpes Simplex
- Weakened immunity and low ojas
- Suppressed digestion leading to āmadoṣa (toxins)
- Excess intake of spicy, sour, or heating foods
- Emotional stress aggravating vāta
- Sexual or oral contact with an infected person
Symptoms of Herpes Simplex
- Tingling or burning before blisters appear
- Painful, fluid-filled eruptions on lips or genitals
- Mild fever, body ache, or swollen lymph nodes
- Itching and crusting as lesions heal
- Frequent recurrences triggered by fatigue or stress
Ayurveda’s Approach to Healing Herpes Simplex
- Blood-cleansing herbs like neem, mañjiṣṭhā, and gudūcī
- Topical cooling with chandana or yastimadhu paste
- Pitta-vāta pacifying diet with soft, cooling foods
- Strengthening ojas with rasāyana herbs like aśvagandhā
- Daily prāṇāyāma and rest to manage stress and prevent recurrence